VOLUME 3 | BRIDGING DOWNTOWN | GRAND RAPIDS
Your city Your voice
Our future
Connect with the momentum. GR Forward will establish an action plan for Downtown, the riverfront, and our next generation. Visit GRForward.org to have a say in how the future takes shape.
Are you looking for... A pint of dry-hopped ale on an outdoor patio? Spectacular light shows across the Blue Bridge? Movies to watch on the “big screen” in the park? Quick and easy routes to reach your destination? Art that encapsulates the faces of Grand Rapids? Jazz musicians playing to the energy of the crowd? We’ll show you where to find that... and everything else.
YOUR PERSONAL CONCIERGE ONLINE
OUT & ABOUT
Downtowngr.org • Facebook • Twitter
Downtown Safety Ambassadors
Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. The who’s who, in the know, all you need to know, one stop resource about Downtown. Why not visit us, follow us, like us, tweet with us, or just stop by at 29 Pearl St. NW, Suite 1.
The friendly team sharing their knowledge of Downtown Grand Rapids. Find them throughout the area as they offer directions, provide umbrella services, or just open the door if your hands are full.
VOLUME 3 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS
Cover photo by Christopher Pastotnik
Contents Presented in Partnership with:
3
A message from the writer
6
Arts abound in downtown Grand Rapids
7
Community events offer art and entertainment for everyone
8-9 10-11
Lee & Birch
12
Something’s brewing in 49503
13
Grand Rapids’ on the map
14-15
Colliers International
16-17
Grand Rapids Community College
18-19
Rockford Construction
20-21
Interurban Transit Partnership
22
Living in 49503
23
Fast living in downtown GR
24-25
First National Bank of Michigan
26-27
Grand Valley State University
28-29
Kendall College of Art & Design
30
2 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Attorneys at Law
Getting around Grand Rapids
32-33
Beacon Hill at Eastgate
34-35
Miller Johnson
36-37
616 Development
VOLUME 3 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS PUBLISHER
John H. Zwarensteyn: jzwarensteyn@geminipub.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Randy D. Prichard: rprichard@geminipub.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Elizabeth Sanders CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Johnny Quirin DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER
Scott Sommerfeld: ssommerfeld@geminipub.com ASSISTANT DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGER
Christopher Pastotnik: cpastotnik@geminipub.com ART COORDINATOR
Kelly J. Nugent: knugent@geminipub.com
City Synergies I
t’s been my privilege to write for the 49503 publication for the past two years.
During my interviews and interactions with the subjects of these articles, there was a common theme. Interview subjects were quick to talk about other organizations and businesses in Grand Rapids. These other groups were often not clients or vendors, who have a clear exchange of goods and services with the subject, but instead were partners who they work with to have some positive impact on the community. Beacon Hill has a relationship with the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College, ensuring their community has access to the finest dining, while giving students experience. 616 Development is proud their of the new 616 Lofts on Prospects’ proximity to The Rapid bus lines, a selling point for their units. Kendall College of Art and Design works with Goodwill Industries to give their students a unique experience.
DESIGNERS/PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS
Melissa Brooks: mbrooks@geminipub.com Kristen Van Oostenbrugge: kristenv@geminipub.com Robin Vargo: rvargo@geminipub.com GENERAL SALES MANAGER
Randy D. Prichard: rprichard@geminipub.com ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS
Christina McDonald Meister: cmeister@geminipub.com Craig R. Rich: crich@geminipub.com Jenn Maksimowski: jmaksimowski@geminipub.com ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT
Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com CIRCULATION & MARKETING MANAGER
All of these companies and organizations create a unique synergy in downtown Grand Rapids, intermingling business and service. Add to that all the volunteer work and opportunities downtown area businesses participate in; mentoring and supporting non-profit organizations and helping to raise funds to support various causes, and you have the foundation for a solid community. Not only are these organizations working together for the whole, but they are excited about these partnerships and how they benefit the community. These relationships create a feeling of goodwill in Grand Rapids and can lead to unique opportunities that benefit the city and the region as people bring their talents and time together.
Scott T. Miller: smiller@geminipub.com CIRCULATION & MARKETING COORDINATOR
Alex Fluegel: afluegel@geminipub.com FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER
Pamela Brocato, CPA: pbrocato@geminipub.com ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Tina Gillman: tgillman@geminipub.com RECEPTION/CLERICAL SERVICES
Whether or not this happens is other cities, I am not sure, but I know that Grand Rapids would be a very different place without this community-focused mindset. I look forward to what will happen next for the 49503. Thank you, Elizabeth Sanders Writer and Small Business Owner
Addie Donley: recept@geminipub.com General Inquiries: info@geminipub.com TO ORDER REPRINTS
Karla Jeltema: kjeltema@geminipub.com, or call (616) 459-4545 49503, Volume 1 is published by Gemini Publications, a division of Gemini Corporation. Publishing offices: 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444. Telephone (616) 459-4545; fax (616) 459-4800. General e-mail: info@geminipub.com. Copyright © 2012 by Gemini Publications. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 49503, 549 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 201, Grand Rapids, MI 49503-1444.
www.geminipub.com
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 3
Arts Abound in Downtown Grand Rapids
W keep you busy.
hether you live in Grand Rapids, are vacationing or traveling for business, there are plenty of arts and entertainment to
The museum, arts and musical attractions in the area are vast and diverse. Between the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Grand Rapids Public Museum, there are many permanent
4 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
and visiting collections to see at any time. Kendall College of Art and Design students are often showing work on the school’s campus or partnering with area organizations to create art experiences. The Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts is another staple for artistic expression in downtown Grand Rapids. A few miles down the road visitors can access the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where acres of rolling grass are covered in sculptures, a replication of a Michigan farmstead, and
indoor gardens that include a unique butterfly exhibit each spring. If you prefer music or the performing arts, the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Performance Hall bring in national bands, artists and large scale shows, while also hosting many local organizations such as the Grand Rapids Ballet and the Grand Rapids Symphony. There are also several local theaters including the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, Circle Theatre, and other smaller theaters such as Spectrum Theatre at Grand Rapids Community College, Dog Story Theater on Jefferson and the Community Media Center Wealthy Theatre. Eclectic offerings such as burlesque and aerial circus performances can be found at local venues, while everything from local and regional bands to national acts at The Intersection, The Pyramid Scheme and Founders Brewing Co.
Community events offer art and entertainment to everyone
F
rom meat-on-a-stick to large scale original art, Grand Rapids’ public events have something for everyone.
For 45 years Grand Rapids has boasted the country’s largest volunteer-run festival - Festival of the Arts. For the first Friday, Saturday and Sunday in June of each year, the streets of downtown are filled with volunteer vendors selling a variety of food to raise money for their charities. Performing artists of all kinds get to share their craft with a new audience and get a taste of an adoring crowd. Artists get a chance to showcase and sell their art, while children get to explore different arts and crafts as well as
face painting and creative activities. The festival in 1969 was a celebration of the installation of Alexander Calder’s La Grand Vitesse in downtown Grand Rapids. Following in the tradition of public art, ArtPrize, an art competition now boasting a publically voted winner and an equal jury competition, is now in its sixth year in downtown Grand Rapids. Artists come from throughout the world to partner with venues and share their art with the thousands of residents, regional visitors and tourists who build their vacations and travels around the competition.
peting not only for $280,000 in prize money from the public vote, but there will also be a juried competition with an equal amount of prize money. This stems from a partnership with ART21, a nonprofit global leader in art education and award winning film producer, according to the ArtPrize website. A Grand Jury assembled by ART21 will choose the winners of $280,000 in the juried component. During the 19 days of ArtPrize, 400,000 visitors come to the 3-square mile area of downtown Grand Rapids, to view the art in the free event, inspiring discussion and impacting the economy.
For the first time, artists will be comBRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 5
GREATER POSSIBILITIES GREATER COLLABORATION CONGENITAL HEART CENTER Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Marcus Haw, MBBS, Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgeon (right) Joseph Vettukattil, MD, MBBS, Pediatric Cardiologist (left)
“For children suffering from congenital heart disease, the continual monitoring and care their lives depend on isn’t always there as they grow older,” says Dr. Marcus Haw. “To address this, Spectrum Health is building a world-class congenital heart center. With patient needs at the center of all that we do, we integrate the expertise of many specialists into one unified care experience. Now, people will always have a place to turn.” Discover all of the ways we’re bringing together great minds, leading research and breakthrough innovation to help you get and stay healthy. spectrumhealth.org
IN BUSINESS, FOR BUSINESS.
ThE RIghT PlacE IS yOUR SINglE SOURcE FOR BUSINESS SUccESS IN WEST MIchIgaN. As the leading economic development organization in West Michigan, The Right Place has assisted thousands of growing companies over our 29-year history. We’re here to ensure that you have the tools and resources your business needs to succeed. Our services include: • • • •
Finding local supply chain opportunities Connecting to regional service providers Confidential site location searches Accessing state and local incentives
• • • •
West Michigan business research International business development Improving regional business infrastructure Manufacturing innovation and development
To request a meeting with our team, visit www.rightplace.org or call 616.771.0325
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 7
Supporting small business, civic engagement are core values at Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Grand Rapids is known for its entrepreneurial and self-driven spirit. The law firm Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge has known that for years, and helped many small and medium businesses as they find their way in the world. “Our business practice has had that focus for a long time, but Grand Rapids is much more deliberate now about encouraging entrepreneurship in a lot of different areas,” said Pat Geary, a shareholder at Smith Haughey and the firm’s president. New entrepreneurs are able to take advantage of the firm’s expertise. Smith Haughey encourages the growth of small business by engaging and partnering with supporting organizations such as Start Garden, The
8 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Right Place, Inc, GR Current and the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce; all located a few blocks from the firm’s Grand Rapids office. “It’s right up our alley to be working with new businesses, with startups and entrepreneurs,” said Lori Gibson, chief operating officer of the firm. “We’ve taken a very keen interest in organizations that are helping to grow the business community.” Smith Haughey’s commitment to the Grand Rapids community does not stop with small businesses. Whether it’s volunteering at the Humane Society, packing lunches for children at Kids’ Food Basket, working with minority students with an interest in law careers, or sponsoring the arts community (including being the
longest-running sponsor of the Civic Theatre), the spirit of civic duty is alive and well at Smith Haughey. Part of being a professional is having an interest in the community that is not purely economic, Geary said. “Our clients are partners in the community,” Geary said. “They want to see that their trusted advisors are also involved in that community.” Smith Haughey has shown they are here to stay in Grand Rapids. Not only did they locate their firm in the previously long-empty Flat Iron Building, they have also recently expanded their space by building out into the adjoining Ledyard Building. “We’re committed to staying here and growing,” added Gibson.
Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge is the longest running sponsor of the Civic Theatre, spanning 40+ years. Left to right: Sheila Eddy, Kristen Guinn, Chris Spain, Megan VerMerris and Mike Shelton (seated).
Attorneys Adam Tountas and Nick Reister
Attorneys Kristen Guinn and Bill Franks at Madcap Coffee
100 Monroe Center NW Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 info@shrr.com | www.shrr.com
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 9
Lee & Birch offers personal styling and more to Grand Rapids, Grand Haven Looking for a personal shopping experience in Grand Rapids? Lee & Birch can meet your shopping needs with one-on-one styling geared toward your body type and individual style. “Personal shopping is a great way for customers to get one-on-one style advice with our team of stylists who will cater to their personal needs,” said Nikki Gillette, owner of Lee & Birch. “Whether it is putting together outfits with items they may already have in their closet, or starting a new wardrobe, our stylists are there to help. We will work with the customer one-onone to find what styles work best for their body and lifestyle.” With everything from tops and dresses to jackets and sweaters, Lee & Birch has a full offering of women’s 10 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
fashions. “The core of the business is women’s clothing and jewelry,” Gillette said. “We also carry other accessories and gifts such as purses and scarves.” Gillette opened the first Lee & Birch location on Washington Street in Grand Haven in 2007, and expanded to a second location in downtown Grand Rapids in 2009. “Our Grand haven store is in the perfect spot downtown to attract seasonal traffic as well as year-round shoppers. We are located on the main street close to many other retailers and popular restaurants,” Gillette said. Recently, the Grand Rapids store relocated to the corner of Wealthy and Eastern, into a historic building that was previously a carwash. “The main reason we chose to move
our downtown location to Wealthy Street is because it is closer to our customer base, has convenient parking, room for outdoor events, and the opportunity for expansion,” Gillette said. With brands such as AG Jeans, Hudson, Language Los Angeles, Bella Dahl and more, Lee & Birch caters to fashionistas in their 30’s and up, with statement pieces along with wardrobe staples. The accessories section at Lee & Birch boasts jewelry from local designers along with on trend handbags and Goorin Brother’s hats. The store also has an online presence at leeandbirch.com, where you can shop, keep up with the store’s blog and sign up for the store’s fashion-focused events.
759 Wealthy St. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 128 Washington Ave Grand Haven, MI 49417
leeandbirch.com
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 11
Something’s brewing in 49503
W
hether you are watching a Tiger’s game at Mitten Brewing Company in the spring, on the deck at Founders Brewing Co. in the summer, enjoying an autumn beer tasting at HopCat or sampling the cuisine at Grand Rapids Brewing Co., all seasons are good for craft beer in downtown Grand Rapids. Earning the name Beer City, USA in both 2012 and 2013, the Grand Rapids area is home to more than a dozen craft breweries. In addition to local fans, the breweries are now drawing in tourists and visitors from all over. Grand Rapids was also one of the Top 10 Best Vacation Cities for Beer Lovers. Experience Grand Rapids now prominently features offerings for beer tourists, including a printable map, list of events, and hotel beer packages. In addition to the year-round breweries, Grand Rapids also has the Annual Winter Beer Festival and Beer Week. In Grand Rapids, where there is beer, there is also food. While breweries like Founders, HopCat, The Mitten, Brewery Vivant, Harmony Brewing and the Grand Rapids Brewing Company are knows for their beer, they also have unique food offerings. Founders offers a variety of sandwiches and appetizers, while Mitten Brewing Company and Harmony Brewing Company offer wood-fired pizza. HopCat and Grand Rapids Brewing Company offer many bar favorites, with their own twist. Brewery Vivant offers Belgianinspired fare you are not likely to find in other area restaurants. With these options and more, craft beer is here to stay in Grand Rapids.
12 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Grand Rapids, on the map
I
t’s not surprising every magazine and website is now boasting a top 10 list to help their readers decide where to live, eat, work, play and spend their time.
In the past few years, Grand Rapids has landed at the top of a diverse array of lists, including many of Forbes listings. Here are a few: • No. 7 in Forbes “The Happiest Cities to Work In” list in 2013. The results were based on 36,000 employee reviews from November 2011 to 2012. • No. 4 in Forbes best cities to find jobs list in 2013. • Grand Rapids was one of Forbes 15 cities with emerging downtowns, also in 2013 • Grand Rapids was named Beer City, USA in both 2012 and 2013 • Forbes also named Grand Rapids a top 10 Mid-sized city for jobs • Lonely Planet’s Top U.S. Travel Destinations for 2014 • Livability’s Top 10 Cities for Affordable Health Care • One of the 10 best places to retire by AARP the Magazine With all these diverse recognitions and all it has to offer, what will be the next distinction to land Grand Rapids on the map?
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 13
Left to right: Christopher Prins, Earl Clements, Mike Murray, & Mark Ansara
Colliers International brings national names to 49503
Dining in downtown Grand Rapids is not a matter of finding a restaurant, but rather which restaurant? Several local and national brands have been establishing themselves in Grand Rapids with the help of the retail team at Colliers International, a local commercial real estate company. Restaurants such as Menna’s Joint and Saladworks are adding new restaurant-only options to the restaurant/ bar establishments already on Ionia. These newcomers, as well as recent adds like Panera Bread at 99 Monroe, bring a different traffic flow to the area. While Menna’s Joint is popular amongst college students familiar with the original location in East Lansing, Saladworks and Panera Bread are national chains appealing to tourists and convention visitors looking for a trust14 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
ed brand as well as downtown diners looking for a quick but healthy meal. “Over the years, Grand Rapids has become more appealing to a diverse variety of people. And that is appealing to a diverse variety of retailers,” said Mark Ansara, Colliers’ retail team leader. As Grand Rapids gains national notice in the areas of travel, art, brewing, education and more, people are coming to downtown and staying for one or more meals. This turn has created opportunity for national chains that was not previously recognized. According to Earl Clements, a retail principal with the firm, “National retailers are starting to look at West Michigan before they look at the East side for the first time. Grand Rapids is catching the eye of national food
chains, who like what they see in the 49503 ZIP code.” Where does this leave local brands? They are continuing to gain success as well. Sundance Grill is a local chain that has found a foothold in Grand Rapids. While it has been a cornerstone of downtown dining since 2001, it recently expanded into a corner space at Pearl and Ottawa, where they have seen a dramatic increase in sales. Their new space features a larger bar and outdoor seating. “Our unique downtown market and the people in it support both national and local brands, providing a much larger offering to 49503,” Ansara added.
333 Bridge St. NW, Suite 1200 Grand Rapids, MI 49504
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 15
Grand Rapids Community College: 100 years of impact For the past 100 years, Grand Rapids Community College, and its preceding organizations, has impacted the economic, geographic, and cultural landscape of downtown Grand Rapids. “We’re talking about our past, but focused on our future,” said GRCC President Steven C. Ender. From high school students taking additional classes, college students exploring different career pathways, two-year degrees and workforce development training, GRCC has an impact on many people from all walks of life in West Michigan. About 5,000 GRCC students transfer to four-year colleges each year. “We are very unique in that we provide a university-quality education through a community college personalized approach,” Ender said. “That is a rather remarkable delivery system,
16 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
especially at the price point we have for tuition.” It’s also a place for people already working to continue their skills and those seeking a new career to gain new skills. GRCC works with local economic development groups to ensure the area has the workforce needed to make it attractive to different industries. GRCC has more than $30 million of the $50 million in grant funding allocated by New Michigan Jobs to the state’s 28 community colleges. “We are working hand-in-hand with local economic development folks, helping potential companies locate or expand here,” Ender said. Investment in building and growing the GRCC campus has also provided much to the downtown area, he said. “We’ve been here, adding stabil-
ity to the urban core for 100 years,” he said. “If you think of the urban core as a shopping mall, we are an anchor store.” Grand Rapids Community College will celebrate its history with several exciting events during the year. The celebration will kick-off with Convocation on August 21. There will be welcome week, a community picnic in September and a gala in October to raise money for student scholarships. President Jimmy Carter will visit GRCC with his wife in September as a part of the Diversity Lecture Series, now in its 20th year. The year also will include a play called Open Door and commencement. See www.grcc.edu/100th for more information on all of the exciting events.
GRCC President Steven C. Ender
(616) 234-4000 143 Bostwick Ave. NE Grand Rapids MI, 49503 grcc.edu BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 17
Mike Mraz, Partner, Rockford Development and Pete Michell, Chief Innovation Officer, Rockford Construction.
18 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Innovation brings creative use of space to downtown Grand Rapids TECHNOLOGY. SPACE. COLLABORATION.
This is what you’ll find at Blue35, the most recent offering from Rockford Development and Construction to hit the downtown Grand Rapids landscape. While Rockford is not new to innovation, Blue35 is a first for the downtown area. People can find a variety of workspace options, with everything they need for technology-based meetings, all in one place. The space offers private offices and co-working stations, great for startups, small companies and corporations looking for team experiences. Blue35 provides flexible access to downtown and concierge services to both local businesses and those travelling in West Michigan. Rockford has a pattern of finding clever uses for downtown space. Adjacent to Blue35, Grand Rapids Innovation and Design at 70 Ionia (Grid70) was created as a ‘think tank’ space for suburban companies’ design teams. The Shops @ Monroe Center and Division, or MoDiv as it is known, brought retail incubator space to Monroe Center, giving entrepreneurs shortterm lease space in a high foot-traffic area.
“It is never just about space for Rockford. Anyone can build a building or use a space. What we try to do is make a place – a community, a collaboration – that offers new ways to live and work. We see every building downtown as an opportunity to create interesting places that connect and inspire people,” said Mike Mraz, a partner in Rockford’s Development Group. Innovation is part of Rockford Construction’s culture. So much so, they recently named Pete Michell as the Chief Innovation Officer, a first for the company. “We thrive on building for the changing world around us. Rockford sees how current trends, such as the increased desire for public transportation and the need for high-technology, affect the built environment, and we constantly seek new ways to create environments that work with the way people use space today,” Michell said. Rockford Construction has already made a huge impact on the face of downtown Grand Rapids through GRid70, MoDiv and now Blue35. With Michell at the helm of innovation, it will be exciting to see what’s next.
601 First Street NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504 616.285.6933 p | 616.285.8001 f www.rockfordconstruction.com BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 19
Silver Line Bus Rapid Transit brings ease of big city commuting to Grand Rapids A typical morning on the Chicago ‘L’ or the New York subway is coming to Grand Rapids. August marks the start of the Silver Line, Michigan’s first bus rapid transit line. Part of The Rapid, the region’s public transportation system, the Silver Line is a new alternative for those traveling along the 131 corridor. The Silver Line is great for those looking for commuting options, opens up new access to employment, and creates the potential for development and growth in the corridor. “Lots of jobs have been created in the downtown area,” said Peter Varga, CEO of The Rapid. “The Silver Line gives access to these jobs in a convenient, cost-effective way.” The Silver Line connects the core downtown with residential areas south of the city. Economic development is expected near the stations. Not only will riders want amenities close at hand, such as coffee shops and dry cleaners, but in many other regions, transit-adjacent housing is among the most desirable locations, with property values to match.
Peter Varga, CEO, The Rapid
20 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
But the system is not just for commuters. It is also for those taking advantage of all downtown has to offer-restaurants, entertainment venues, cultural institutions, and events. The station at 60th Street has a park-andride lot, making access convenient for those not directly on the line. Boarding is level with the station platform and all tickets are pre-purchased. Each bus and station will have bike racks for those who choose to mix their modes of transportation. Silver Line buses will have Wi-Fi access for those wishing to add some productive time—or some time to escape—to their day. Fares will be seamless with the rest of The Rapid’s system, making it easy to transfer between the Silver Line and other routes in the system. Bus stations are about every mile apart south of 28th Street and every half mile from there through downtown. Stations are equipped with real time arrival signage, cameras, and a security phone. Instructions to use the system and more information is available at http:// www.ridetherapid.org/silver-line
www.ridetherapid.org 616-776-1100
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 21
Living in 49503
D
owntown Grand Rapids’ revitalization has caused more people to consider living in the 49503 ZIP code.
From condos and apartments in the Monroe North Business Association to mixed-use retail and residential units on the south end of downtown, people are looking for options to live downtown, at the epicenter of Grand Rapids. Nearby neighborhoods include Heritage Hill, where 616 Development has opened its latest project, 616 Lofts on Prospect, as well as various single family and apartment homes along Lafayette Avenue, College Avenue, Fulton Street, Wealthy Street and Fountain Street. Choices food, shopping, education, entertainment and employment make living downtown a feasible option. Brittany Tuori, marketing and communications specialist for Colliers International, has lived downtown for three years in the Plaza Towers Apartments. When it was time for her to move, she chose to stay downtown, moving into 616 Lofts on Ionia. “It’s changed significantly, even in the last 5 years,” Tuori said of the downtown area. “Being in commercial real estate I’ve seen a lot of changes, but living downtown I’ve seen even more.” The increasing diversity of people, downtown amenities and growing public transit contributed to Tuori’s decision to stay in downtown Grand Rapids. “I never thought it would offer as much as it does,” she said. “It has the amenities of Chicago or Boston without being unmanageable.”
22 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Fast Living in Downtown GR
W attractions.
hile food and drink are certainly celebrated in Grand Rapids, activities to stay fit are also in the long line of area
Each year, thousands of people come to Grand Rapids for various sporting events that fill the streets and conference spaces of Grand Rapids. Every second Saturday in May, more than 20,000 people come to watch and participate in the Fifth Third River Bank Run - a tradition of more than 35 years! The run offers a 5K, 10K, and 25K and showcases the city and its surrounding parks. This race encourages everyone from novice runners and walkers to elite athletes to come to Grand Rapids. Leading up to the Fifth Third River Bank Run is a new, women-only race started in 2013 by Gazelle Sports. The Gazelle Girl Half Marathon and 5K is quickly gaining popularity, starting in Grand Rapids and showing off the near north side of the city in April. In the fall, the Metro Health Grand Rapids Marathon and Half Marathon set the pace through downtown and in the winter, hearty runners can experience the Groundhog Marathon and Half Marathon at Millennium Park. If running is not for you, Michigan State University’s Gran Fondo Grand Rapids is a non-competitive bike race with a 12, 25, 40 or 80 mile loop. The June race raises money to benefit skin cancer research at the university. Other sports get their time in West Michigan when the State Games of Michigan feature 39 sports in the Summer Games and 13 sports in the winter games each year.
DISTINCTIVELY DOWNTOWN 2013 49503 23
First National Bank of Michigan, taking the financial challenge of out business At First National Bank of Michigan, they know being in business is challenging. That’s why they believe financing shouldn’t be. Whether funding new developments, real estate, operating capital, or term loans, First National Bank of Michigan wants the Grand Rapids area to rest easy when it comes to financing. “As a community bank, we take care of local financing needs,” said First National Bank of Michigan Market President Jefra Groendyk. Coit Avenue Gravel Co. is one of many local businesses working with First National Bank of Michigan. Serving Kent County and the surrounding area since 1947, the business makes and sells gravel products and ready concrete mix. The company turned to
the bank to finance everything from working capital to their plant and equipment. Often called Coit Gravel, the business also encompasses Northdale Estates, a real estate development company which will eventually construct nearly 100 single-family homes. When Northdale Estates needed financing, they also turned to First National Bank of Michigan. “We chose First National Bank of Michigan because of our long and trusted relationship with Jefra and Dan Bitzer, the Bank’s Executive Vice President and Senior Lender. They have met and exceeded all of our needs in the past, and we look forward to a long future with them as our bank,” said James A. Dykema, president of Coit Gravel.
Working with companies like Coit Gravel is one of the highlights of her job, according to Groendyk. “Being a part of First National Bank of Michigan allows me to be more hands-on with the community and our clients,” Groendyk said. “As a commercial banker at a local bank, I am able to provide the level of service our clients deserve and expect.” In addition to the bank’s community-based philosophy, Groendyk said the team sets First National Bank of Michigan apart. “Banking is a relationship business; we have an extraordinary group of people,” she said. “At First National Bank of Michigan we work as a team to make sure we are delivering superior service to our clients.”
Coit Gravela staff members, left to right, Jim Rittenhouse, Ken Royce, Dan Bitzer (1st National Bank), Greg Jakubowski, Steve Landstra, Jefra Groendyk (1st National Bank), Jim Dykema. 24 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Andrew Dykema, James A. Dykema, Jefra Groendyk-Market President, Dan Bitzer- Executive Vice President and Senior Lender.
141 Ionia Avenue, N.W. Grand Rapids fnbmichigan.com 616.242.6500 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 25
GVSU
26 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Construction projects on Grand Valley State University’s campuses continue the university’s commitment to educating health care workers. The additions on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids and Allendale campuses will help meet workforce demands for nursing and health professions employees. Last year, the university purchased 11 acres northeast of downtown Grand Rapids to expand its health campus. The acreage, north of 1-196, provides Grand Valley with 18 acres for health programs, including the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences on Michigan Avenue. Construction on the new Grand Rapids site is years away, but Roy Olsson, dean of the College of Health Professions, said a new building planned to open next year on the Allendale Campus will provide immediate space for more labs and classrooms. The new Science Laboratory Building will be 151,000 square feet and four stories tall, with room for nine classrooms, 15 teaching labs, 14 faculty and student research labs, study spaces, offices and a greenhouse. “This really helps meet the needs of our students,” Olsson said, adding that nearly one-third of all Grand Valley students are enrolled in some type of health professions program.
The expanded health campus will provide more opportunities for programs to use the resources of the Simulation Center. The center, housed in the Michigan Avenue building, promotes interprofessional health care delivery by enhancing education with the use of standard patients, high-fidelity manikins and assessment labs. Olsson said the majority of programs in the College of Health Professions are secondary admit, meaning they require students to apply to the college after completing core requirements. “The ease of transition to a secondary-admit program comes with more experience in labs,” he said. Some health professions programs, like physical therapy and physician assistant studies, will use the Science Lab Building for anatomy labs and courses. Grand Valley’s College of Health Professions and the Kirkhof College of Nursing currently offer 12 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including two doctoral programs. Olsson said new buildings positively impact recruitment of top scholars. “Both students and faculty look at the environment for teaching and learning,” he said. “You imagine yourself working there. It’s like athletics, when there are enhancements to a stadium or new locker facilities that adds to recruitment of players.”
Clockwise from top left: rendering of future health campus space; simulation exercise at the CookDeVos Center for Health Sciences; construction underway on the Science Laboratory Buidling; mock disaster exercise at CHS; Roy Olsson, dean of the College of Health Professions; and CHS on Michigan Avenue.
301 Michigan Avenue NE Grand Rapids, MI (616) 331-5000 www.gvsu.edu BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 27
Downtown with Meijer State Games of Michigan’s Urban Downhill competition.
KCAD Art Education students worked with local special education programs for “Make Good, Make Art” 28 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
A KCAD student works with a wounded vet during a Fashion Has Heart event.
Painting Pearl St. with adaptive art tools at Festival of the Arts 2014
Kendall College of Art and Design Connects All Aspects of Community
Student work modeled during KCAD’s Festival of the Arts fashion show.
What do Goodwill Industries, the Grand Rapids Public Museum, and local business leaders have in common? They are all collaborating with Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) to provide more experiences for KCAD students and create beneficial connections within the community. Whether it’s giving students the chance to connect with local businesses, with the local non-profit community, or with a variety of organizations to ensure middle and high school students understand the theories of Design Thinking, KCAD is all about broad collaborations for the benefit of the whole. The college shows this commitment through its Director of Community Engagement and Director of Business Engagement. The positions improve connections with local businesses, nonprofits and community organizations, said Oliver Evans, Interim President for the college.
“It’s a part of a larger vision for the college’s role in the community,” he said. Ken Krayer, Director of Business Engagement, said more students want to stay in the Grand Rapids area post-graduation. He is working to get local business leaders in front of the students to create relationships that can lead to those opportunities. “It’s not just important for the students to come out and see businesses, it’s important for businesses to see our students,” he said. Katie Moore, Director of Community Engagement, is also making connections in the community, including the creation of a new cobranded line of clothes with Goodwill Industries. Three KCAD students have the opportunity to use materials from Goodwill to create their own fashion line. This line will be sold locally at Blue in the MoDiv building. “The students get a lot out of it and the clothing will be featured in fashion events in the fall,” she said.
17 Fountain St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-451-2787 Office kcad.edu BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 29
Getting Around Grand Rapids
T
ransportation in and around Grand Rapids downtown has never been easier, and it’s getting better all the time.
With The Rapid’s new Division Avenue Bus Rapid Transit Silver Line now operational, people have more options for getting in and out of downtown quickly, but there are also other options once you are downtown. The free Downtown Area Shuttle DASH - takes passengers who park in the DASH lots on different routes
30 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
throughout the day with a Hill, South, West and North loop, connecting every 3 to 20 minutes, depending on route. During the evening you can safely make your way from brewery to brewery or to different events using G.R. Hopper, a nightlife shuttle service with costs as low as $5 per person and perks at some area venues. You can pedal your way around using the Great Lakes Pub Cruiser, a way to safely get to 3 to 5 area bars in one visit, all on your own bicycle power! If you prefer a controlled temperature,
you can use the Grand Rapids skywalk to get from DeVos Place to the Van Andel Arena, with the Amway Grand Plaza and J.W. Marriot on the way. For cyclists, watch for the ever-growing amount of bike lanes that help keep you safe in the city of Grand Rapids, which is planning to add 100 miles of bike lanes by 2017, according to Experience Grand Rapids. With all these ways to get around, there’s no excuse not to enjoy all that downtown Grand Rapids has to offer.
CONGRATULATIONS !
GEORGE T. SINAS
2014 CHAMPION OF JUSTICE Michigan Association for Justice
T HE EXCELLENCE C ONTINUES 2013 LAWYER OF THE Y EAR Michigan Lawyers Weekly
2013 PROTECTION & PRESERVATION AWARD Coalition Protecting Auto No-Fault
2013 CATALINA A NDRES H UMANITARIAN AWARD ACS Foundation
A PREMIER TEAM IN PERSONAL I NJURY LAW Lansing Office
Grand Rapids Office
3380 Pine Tree Road
15 Ionia Ave. SW, Ste. 300
Lansing, MI 48911
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
(o) 517-394-7500
(o) 616-301-3333
(f) 517-394-7510
(f) 616-301-3344
SINASDRAMIS . COM • AUTONOFAULTLAW.COM • SDBICYCLE LAWYER .COM
Beacon Hill at Eastgate connects residents to heart of the city Though they live a few miles from the sights and sounds of downtown Grand Rapids, the residents of Beacon Hill at Eastgate maintain a strong connection to the vibrant cultural center of the city. Connecting the community and downtown life is part of their mission, said Jeff Huegli, president and CEO. “We just want to become a conduit for our residents and facilitate the enjoyment of the arts and volunteering as a civic servant if they can, in the variety of outlets we’ve got around town.” Beacon Hill provides transportation and opportunities to residents, allowing them to experience the city where many of them spent meaningful years. This not only allows them to take in events such as the theater, symphony and opera, but to continue to contribute to the city they love through volunteering at various organizations such as the Grand Rapids Art Museum. 32 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
ArtPrize is another important event for the residents, with a bus bringing residents to and from downtown around the clock during the fall public art competition. While the community aims to bring its residents downtown to experience life in the city center, residents don’t have to travel at all to have a meal worthy of downtown dining. Beacon Hill has a strong relationship with the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College. “Our residents love it and it keeps us on the cutting edge of cuisine,” Huegli said. These amenities and offerings fit into their focus of hospitality and fine dining throughout their organization. Residents are served around the continuum of care, starting with 114 independent living apartments, and spanning needs through assisted liv-
ing, a memory unit, rehabilitation and skilled nursing. The hospitality focus has been so richly embraced by the people of Grand Rapids that Beacon Hill is in the midst of an expansion effort. The expansion will not only bring the opportunity for more housing but will further the resort-like setting with the addition of a Garden Café, an auditorium and other amenities. The community is located at 1919 Boston Street SE, Grand Rapids, in a vibrant neighborhood. Thirty-percent of the residents come from a 5-mile radius and many of the community’s 170 employees come from the neighborhood as well. The non-profit organization has a strong partnership with Mercy Health Partners and hosts the Michigan State University residency program for geriatric patients.
1919 Boston Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506 p: 616.426.2755 BeaconHillGR.org BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 33
John Wheeler, Orion Construction; Craig Mutch, Miller Johnson; Joe Kuhn, Orion Construction
34 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
Miller Johnson ‘Dares to be different’ with Arena Place
When Miller Johnson announced the law firm signed on to be the anchor tenant at Arena Place - thereby expanding the scope of the project - the news was monumental, intriguing both the legal and business communities. The 55-year-old firm has embraced their mission of “daring to be different” by moving from the city center. Arena Place is a new mixed used development at the corner of Ottawa and Weston Street. Miller Johnson will have the top four floors and was instrumental in the building project increasing from a 5 to an 11-story building. “Our clients, the city, even practicing law, have become more sophisticated so, it was time to reflect that
in our offices. We’ll be incorporating new design and embracing new technology and efficiencies all while providing the personalized, high-level legal representation our clients have come to expect,” said Craig Mutch, Miller Johnson managing member. “We got excited about the prospect of new construction instead of renovating because it affords us the opportunity to design for the future needs of the firm and our clients.” In addition to location, Arena Place will offer the firm new technology, uniform offices, meeting spaces, and outdoor amenities. The new offices will provide hoteling options for visiting lawyers, as well as spaces that can be used for conferences and collaboration.
Miller Johnson is excited to partner with the local companies, restaurants, retailers and future residents who will also call Arena Place their home. “We’re only moving a half-mile from our current offices in the Calder Plaza Building. However, Arena South is a vibrant active area. We get the bonus of being a part of this new wave of expansion while continuing our dedication to being downtown,” Mutch said. From the latest in video conferencing and data security to small group collaboration, clients will reap the benefits. “You could say the new environment demonstrates we’re not just your grandparent’s law firm,” Mutch said.
Dedicated to downtown GR 1959
1967
1981
Michigan Trust Building
Old Kent Building
Calder Plaza Building
2016 Arena Place
www.millerjohnson.com BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 35
616 Lofts on Prospect brings new life to old church After seven years of vacancy, the former Bethlehem Lutheran church has transformed into residential lofts, breathing new life into a historic Grand Rapids building. 616 Lofts on Prospect is the latest project from 616 Development, previously known for their mixed-use urban development projects. “The Heritage Hill community is a collection of some of the most eclectic residential dwellings in the region and this historic church offered us a unique opportunity to not only become part of that community, but to create a vibrant location for our residents who want to live, work and play in an urban environment,” said Monica Clark, director of development. “616 Lofts at the Kendall and now 616 Lofts on Prospect highlight our fresh approach at the redevelopment of
36 49503 BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014
wonderful properties like the former Bethlehem Church.” 616 Lofts on Prospect, which has been pre-leased and opened to residents on July 1, is a glimpse into future opportunities for the urban development company, beyond urban mixeduse developments. The formerly vacant church now houses 22 market-rate apartments, including a studio, 11 one-bedroom apartments, and 10 2-bedroom apartments. As a registered historic building, 616 Development maintained original architecture, giving residents the unique decor of stained glass, beams and buttresses among other features of the church. The apartments are rented for anywhere from $750 for the studio to $1,800 for the two-bedroom units. “We’ve gotten some really exciting
feedback,” said Caitlin Harvey, director of community. “Everyone is really excited about the neighborhood and the historic nature of the building.” Harvey said residents are also excited about the ease of access to downtown Grand Rapids. The development is located between three different bus stops that residents can use to travel throughout the city. This is the fifth project for the company, which is working on the sixth development - 616 Lofts on Michigan - with two more expected to be announced by the end of 2014. 616 Lofts on Michigan, located at 740 Michigan, will have 54 market- rate apartments and ground floor retail. Other projects include 616 Lofts on Pearl, 616 Lofts on Ionia, 616 Lofts at the Kendall and 616 Lofts on Grandville.
80 Ottawa Avenue NW, Suite 250 Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616.504.1715 www.616development.com
BRIDGING DOWNTOWN 2014 49503 37
•
GRAND RAPIDS
•
WHERE BOBCATS PROWL, CATERPILLARS CRAWL AND CRANES COME TO ROOST
Just look around. While most regions are at a standstill, Grand Rapids remains on Just lookwith around. Grand Rapids a city on the move with cranesAtinThe the Right skyline and the move cranes in the skylineisand caterpillars on the ground. Place, caterpillars on the ground. There’s an energy pulsating from 49503 that is being felt we’ve been working hard to provide new and existing businesses the resources and throughout the Midwest. Our businesses and community leaders have set in motion direction they need to grow and thrive in any climate. an unprecedented level of growth and investment that has made West Michigan a destination for business success. Our team of experts can assist with: • Building business and regional collaborations • “One of the Best Places to Invest” – Forbes • Identifying local supply chain opportunities • “One of the Top 15 Cities with Emerging Downtowns” – Forbes • Providing guidance of tax incentive programs “One of America’s 10 Most Exciting Mid-Sized Cities” – MOVOTO Blog federal, state and local government relations • •Improving business research • •Providing “Rankedcustom 3rd Best Mid-Size City forservices Jobs in 2014” – Forbes • Improving manufacturing processes • Improving innovation processes • Hosting business networking and educational events and private meetings To Torequest requestaameeting meetingwith withour ourteam, team,visit visit www.rightplace.org www.rightplace.orgororcall call616.771.0325 616.771.0325 totolearn learnmore. more